Korean American and immigrant votes make a difference in Illinois mid-terms

Korean American and Immigrant Votes Make a Difference in Illinois Mid-Terms

Voters have spoken in 2018's historic mid-term elections. Illinois, voters rejected the politics of fear, hatred and division. Chicago turned out the highest number of voters in 32 years, including record numbers of young voters.

As a leading advocate for justice, immigrant rights, and empowerment of Korean-American and immigrant communities and youth, HANA Center engaged thousands of voters across the state this election year. Of respondents surveyed by HANA Center, 77% of Korean American and immigrant voters expressed the State of Illinois did not serve them well in the past four years. They identified access to health care, affordable education, fair taxes, and keeping the family-based immigration system intact as key issues they want to see addressed in Illinois and in this country.

Our work has just begun. Across the state, voters know we cannot, and will not, allow the basic rights of children and families to be denied because of misguided, reactionary policies by the Trump administration. Using immigrants to induce fear, hatred, and division among everyday people in this nation as exemplified by Trump's recent request to the Supreme Court to hear a case to end DACA, bypassing the Circuit Courts and due process, is completely unacceptable. Brazen and egregious attacks only motivate people to come out and vote in unprecedented numbers.

With the new Illinois Governor and other key leadership in our state, along with new members of Congress, HANA Center will continue to serve, organize, and engage voters year-round to build community power. Today, we are proud to be part of the Illinois electorate in taking such a clear, strong stand for all families.